Tempe, AZ vs Orange, CA: 120 vs 206

$1,623/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$2,252/mo ↑ 39%

$77,643/yr ↓ 34%

Median Income

$116,945/yr ↑ 51%

$421,900 ↓ 53%

Home Value

$900,700 ↑ 113%

$1,554/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$2,394/mo ↑ 54%

186,419

Population

138,723

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Orange, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 206 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $629/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $7,548/year.

Median household income is $39,302/year higher in Orange. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $900,700 in Orange.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Orange — common questions

Is Tempe or Orange cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 206 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Orange?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Orange it's $2,252/month — a difference of $629/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Orange?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $116,945 in Orange. Median household income is $39,302/year higher in Orange.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Orange?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Orange has a cost index of 206 with rent of $2,252/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Orange, CA (2026)

Tempe

Orange

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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